One of the most highly anticipated events of the year, the 12th Annual Sugar Land Wine & Food Affair is set for April 8th through April 12th. Last year’s affair attracted more than 10,000 wine and food lovers from Texas, as well as supporters from across the country. This year’s event will include participation by international chefs, along with more than 75 chefs and restaurants, creating original dishes with their signature touches.
Over 2,600 bottles of wine will be poured, tasted and paired at the five-day, fun-filled event, including educational seminars, wine and beer tastings and bidding auctions, among other exciting events. Continuing last year’s traditions and schedule, the affair will kick-off with a five-course VIP dinner, “La Dolce Vita,” on Wednesday evening, followed by The Bartender Challenge on Thursday, The Grand Tasting and Grand Auction on Friday evening, The Sip & Stroll at the historical Imperial Sugar Factory on Saturday afternoon and The Bistro Brunch Sunday afternoon to conclude event festivities.
The Sugar Land Wine & Food Affair is produced by the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce in cooperation with the University of Houston Conrad N. Hilton College of Hotel and Restaurant Management. All proceeds support a permanent scholarship endowment at the University of Houston Conrad N. Hilton College of Hotel and Restaurant Management. Individual tickets range from $50 to $150, and a three-day VIP pass is $225.
Visit sugarlandwineandfoodaffair.com for more information or to purchase tickets.
Wednesday, April 8th, 6 – 9:30 pm
Sugar Land Marriott Town Square
Kicking off the 12th annual Sugar Land Wine & Food Affair, this seated VIP dinner at the Sugar Land Marriott Town Square will be hosted by the world renowned Official Ambassador of Castello Banfi and Vigne Regali, Luciano Castiello. “La Dolce Vita” will transport guests to Italy with its exquisite, traditional Italian cuisine. Immerse the palate with elegant Banfi wines, and journey through a five-course, luxury dinner prepared by Houston’s top chefs.
Thursday, April 9th, 6:30 – 9 pm
Riverstone Club
Delight in a number of specially crafted New Amsterdam Vodka cocktails prepared by five of Houston’s most skilled mixologists as they compete for a grand prize of $1,000! After the last tipple has been sipped, one recipe will be named the official cocktail of the 12th Annual Sugar Land Wine & Food Affair and will be served at the Grand Tasting, Sip & Stroll and Bistro Brunch.
Friday, April 10th, 5:30 – 6:30 pm
Sugar Land Marriott Town Square
Join award-winning wine and spirits professional Jessica Sanders for an in-depth look at the hottest trends in the wine industry for 2015. Attendees will take a closer look at wines from different appellations of Napa Valley, as well as some unique spins of Sherries.
Friday, April 10th, 5:30 – 6:30 pm
Sugar Land Marriott Town Square
Prepare to take a journey around the world through the exceptional whiskey offerings from the United States, Canada, Ireland, Scotland and Japan. Learn how the region and rich history plays an integral part on the flavor profile and unique qualities of each whiskey expression. As guests’ taste buds are transported across the world, they will experience the excitement and entertainment of a well-seasoned adventurer.
Friday, April 10th, 7 – 9:30 pm
Sugar Land Marriott Town Square
Held in the elegant ballroom, this exquisite evening tasting event will feature mouthwatering creations from top culinary superstars, perfectly paired with the most delectable wines and spirits. Meanwhile, the Grand Auction benefiting the Conrad N. Hilton College of Hotel & Restaurant Management will offer guests the chance to bid on exclusive items as they indulge.
Saturday, April 11th, 1 – 4 pm
Imperial Sugar Land
Sip on the beverage of your choice, sample savory selections from popular restaurants, peruse the offerings of fine artisans and enjoy live music while strolling across the historic grounds of the Imperial Sugar Factory. Ale aficionados won’t want to miss the expanded beer garden, featuring more than 100 beers from 25 different breweries.
Sunday, April 12th, 11 am – 2 pm
Sugar Land Town Square
Bloody Marys, mimosas, wine, beer and much more await attendees at the Bistro Brunch. Indulge in delicious foods from around the world while enjoying live music and cultural performances. This is gourmet on a global scale!